Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 June 2021
154. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on extending eligibility for domiciliary care allowance to children residing in hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35311/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraDomiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is a payment made in respect of a child with a severe disability who requires additional care and attention. It is payable to the person providing for the child's care while they are resident with that person for at least 5 days each week.
DCA can be paid, for a period not exceeding 13 weeks in any 12 months, if the child is admitted to hospital on a full-time basis for medical or other treatment.
If a child is resident in an institution (including a hospital) for part of each week, DCA can be paid at 50% of the normal rate if the child resides with the qualified person between 2 and 4 days each week.
Any amendment to the qualifying conditions of the scheme would have cost implications and could only be considered in a wider Budgetary context.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
